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8.03.2011

We planted Buckwheat along the driveway and in areas all around the yard, especially near the hives, so that the bees would have blossoms through the summer months. Since the rains, the buckwheat has blossomed nicely and I can't wait to see what the honey tastes like this time. Buckwheat is easy to grow and it is very good for poor acidic soils like ours. It also helps to reduce erosion, which is helpful on our little hill. It is actually not related to wheat and is not a true cereal, and is related to rhubarb, and a broad leafed pseudocereal such as Amaranth or Quinoa. Buckwheat was first cultivated in Asia as early as 6000 BC. The flour is used in the production of many foods worldwide, such as pancakes, the Belgian ( Wallonian) "boûketes" Japanese Soba Noodles, beer, tea and much more. Buckwheat contains no gluten, and is highly nutritous. I can't wait to see how it effects the flavor and color of the honey in the hives.